Call for 'respectful dialogue' at science march

By Dawn Anderson
Posted 4/25/17

Dismal, rainy weather couldn't stop the hundreds of science enthusiasts who came together on Earth Day to support Rhode Island's first March for Science. Held at the State House, the event attracted people of all ages and walks of life

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Call for 'respectful dialogue' at science march

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Dismal, rainy weather couldn’t stop the hundreds of science enthusiasts who came together on Earth Day to support Rhode Island’s first March for Science.  Held at the State House, the event attracted people of all ages and walks of life who gathered to lend support to scientific research and to speak out against budget cuts proposed by the Trump administration.

Rally-goers openly discussed issues important to them and proudly clutched their colorful, handmade signs, some which read: “Without Science, They’ll Never Cure Trump,” “There is no Planet B,” and one in the shape of a flask, which read, “We Are Part of the Solution.”

Dr. Sunshine Menezes, of the Metcalf Institute for Marine & Environmental Reporting at University of Rhode Island, spoke of the importance of all people, scientists and non-scientists, coming together, addressing challenges, and uniting with those who may have opposing views.

“We have reached a moment of intense political division, and we desperately need respectful dialogue,” she said, adding, “We did not arrive at this moment overnight. It will take time to allow a discussion to blossom, especially with someone who sees the world differently.”

Her words resonated with the audience, as the cohesiveness amongst those in attendance was evident.  Barriers, which usually separate people, whether it be social status, ethnicity, sexual orientation or religion, seemed to be tossed aside.

One of the speakers, Timmons Roberts, PhD, a professor at Brown University, has worked on climate change for 25 years.  He spoke of the importance of defending science, saying that science alone is not enough and in order to get anywhere, scientists need to attend to justice.

“Ninety-seven percent of scientists say climate change is real,” he says, adding, “We’re working against the psychology of denial.”

A part of that denial stems from the former Global Climate Coalition, which he says, “Put out doubt about what is real.  Climate change is real.”  The Coalition, which was a lobbyist group from 1989-2001, was opposed to the science behind climate change and opposed action that would reduce greenhouse gas emissions.  The group disbanded in 2001, feeling that it fulfilled its mission. 

“The nerds won’t be kept away. Let’s hear it for the nerds!” Roberts said as he led a rally-wide chant of “nerds, nerds, nerds.”

Echoing his sentiments was Director of the RI Department of Health, Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott, who stated, “Climate change is absolutely real and an absolute health priority. We need to acknowledge how important science is to our future.”

She spoke of how climatic conditions, such as heat waves, storms and droughts, affect both infections and even the foods we eat. Sharing her visions of the future, her hopes of “a Rhode Island where no person’s health depends on their zip code,” received loud cheers of approval from the passionate crowd.

People seemed oblivious to the chill in the air as they candidly discussed the same issues as the speakers on stage.  Although not intended to be a political rally, the actions of the current administration were a primary concern.  The threat of cutting funds throughout various scientific research institutes, global warming, clean air and water, technology and energy were just some of the topics discussed.  Cameron Landry, 21, expressed his uneasiness about how certain funds are allocated.

“I think that all the money we’re putting into the military to destroy the earth, we should be putting it into healing the earth,” he said.

Some also spoke of the importance of owning what you believe in.

“It’s important to take a stand as much as possible,” said URI student Kedreack Brown, who freely discussed his opposition to federal cuts in programs such as the EPA. 

William Lundeen of Kingston echoed similar sentiments: “It’s important for people to voice their opinion, as long as it’s backed up by science,” he stated, as he spoke of the reality of climate change.

After setting an example of the importance of acceptance, solidarity and peace, it was time for the event to end.  As the crowd marched to its final destination at War Memorial Park, new friendships seemed to emerge as participants continued to do what they’d been doing all afternoon: exchanging names and stories and speaking as if they’d known each other for years. It was one of over 500 Earth Day March for Science rallies held throughout the world.

Those interested in attending a monthly science gathering should consider Nerd Nite RI, a group that meets and discusses a variety of science topics. Meetings are held at AS220, located on Empire Street in Providence, with the next one being scheduled for Wednesday, April 26.  Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the first talk begins at 6.  Please ask for Torrey or Russ, or visit the group’s website at www.nerdniteri.com.

If you would like information on climate change as it relates to Rhode Island visit www.riclimatechange.org.

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